Garage Find – Original 1969 Shelby GT500 With 8,500 Miles

Headed to Auction April 25, 2014

Amie WilliamsAssociate Online Editor

March 20, 2014

A few weeks ago we brought you the story of an ultra-rare Ford GT40 stashed under piles of junk in a suburban garage. Just recently, another rare Ford has been discovered -- 1969 Shelby GT500 Mustang -- just 1 of 1,000 ever built.

The owner, Larry Brown, was a resident of Centre Hall, Pennsylvania and sadly passed away late last year on his birthday. With no children or wife to pass on his estate to, Brown’s prize Shelby GT500 Ford Mustang and more of his belongings including his house, televisions, snow blowers, motorbikes, etc., are all heading to auction next month on April 25, 2014.

When Brown purchased his Shelby GT500 Ford Mustang brand new on May 9, 1969, he paid just $5,245.97. The last time the car was brought in to the shop (adjusting the door glass) was in September of 1969 with just 1,665 miles on the odometer. Brown permanently parked the car back in 1973 with a mere 8,531 miles on the clock.

What makes this car even more of a gem is the heart of the beast – a 428 Cobra Jet engine mated to a 4-speed transmission. Other original parts include the paint, tires, belts, hoses, steering wheel covered and spark plug wires dated back to 1968. It has been confirmed by Dane Hooper, manager of the estate, that the tires have been replaced but wrap around the original production wheels.

Also discovered with the car was the car’s original smog system, shifter assembly, snorkel, S-tube, Shelby window sticker, bill of sale, build sheet, owner’s manual, warranty card, title and registration documentation. On the windshield was the last PA inspection sticker dating back to 1973.

Photo Gallery

Supposedly, the Shelby has been maintained while stored with the engine being fired up as recently as three years ago. According to locals, Brown’s Ford Shelby GT500 was never driven in the rain and has never seen a wash with a hose due to fear of rust. Besides the recent washing of decades of dust, the last time this car was washed was in the detail bay of the dealership before Brown’s purchase.

This Shelby GT500 Ford Mustang is said to be in good to excellent condition with original and unrestored parts. 70-75% of the paint appears to be original besides some early paint touch-ups.

Cars with less original parts sell for over $100k, who knows how much this Shelby GT500 Mustang will sell when the hammer comes down. Any questions regarding the car, visit Rgilliganauctions.com and drop them a line.